Michael B Jordan Essence Luncheon will highlight the participation of actor and producer Michael B. Jordan among a distinguished group of presenters at this year’s Essence Black Women in Hollywood luncheon. The event, hosted by Marsai Martin, is scheduled for March 12 at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, celebrating the achievements and influence of Black women in the entertainment industry.
Joining Jordan will be Delroy Lindo, Ryan Coogler, Teyana Taylor, and Jurnee Smollett, who will all contribute as presenters throughout the program honoring significant contributors to Hollywood’s evolving narrative.
Honoring Influential Women Behind the Scenes and Onscreen
The 19th annual luncheon will pay tribute to Chase Infiniti, Kerry Washington, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, and Zinzi Coogler. It will also deliver a special homage to the women responsible for the acclaimed film Sinners, including cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw, production designer Hannah Beachler, costume designer Ruth E. Carter, hair designer Shunika Terry-Jennings, and actresses Wunmi Mosaku and Jayme Lawson. This recognition highlights the crucial roles that women in various creative capacities play in shaping Hollywood’s landscape.
Special Presentations and Recognitions Throughout the Ceremony
Michael B. Jordan and filmmaker Ryan Coogler will jointly present an award to Oscar-nominated producer and Proximity Media co-founder Zinzi Coogler, celebrating the women who contributed to the cultural impact of their film. Delroy Lindo will honor Kerry Washington, his co-star from the Hulu dramedy UnPrisoned, while Teyana Taylor will recognize Infiniti, her co-star from One Battle After Another. Jurnee Smollett will present awards to LaTanya Richardson Jackson, who is not only a celebrated actress but also Smollett’s godmother.
Celebrating Black Women’s Empowerment with Performances and Awards
Themed Off Script, the luncheon focuses on how Black women are redefining Hollywood by expanding beyond traditional roles and gaining increased creative authority and ownership. Grammy-winning artist Mýa will contribute a special performance, adding a musical celebration to the event.
The ceremony, along with the pre-show hosted by Scott Evans and Stacy Ike, will be livestreamed on Essence’s YouTube channel. The pre-show will feature the presentation of the Essie’s Choice Award, with cast members from CBS’s Beyond the Gates, Hulu’s Reasonable Doubt, and Netflix productions Beauty in Black and Forever nominated. Additionally, the inaugural Creators’ Award will be announced, recognizing emerging creative talents in the industry.
Significance of the Event for Hollywood’s Future
This luncheon underscores the ongoing shift in Hollywood where Black women are gaining more control over storytelling and production, challenging longstanding industry barriers. By honoring not only leading actresses but also the creative forces behind the scenes, the event highlights the growing influence and recognition of Black women shaping entertainment’s future landscape.
